New Jersey -- On January 3, James Monroe Elementary School students got to return to their school after three years. Three years ago, a fire destroyed the school, which didn't have fire sprinklers.

Almost 500 students and faculty were displaced when James Monroe Elementary School burned to the ground because of an improperly disposed of cigarette. Firefighters tried to beat down the flames, but within hours, the school was destroyed.

The school received a $19 million payout and $18.6 million bond approved by voters to rebuild the school and add improvements. The new school has a second floor of classrooms, new gym, stage, and cafeteria. It is also fully protected by fire sprinklers.

The New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board urges all schools to be built with fire sprinkler systems.